love it/hate it: maybelline the rocket volum' express mascara

now I don't know about you, but mascara is hands down my favorite/desert island makeup product. forget the rest of your face- lashes are the piece de resistance of any look. I love the look of long, dark, and curled lashes- the longer the better. while some people are all about volume, and love the look of a super thick lash that is full through the base and along your lash line, that really isn't my cup of tea. when I'm trying out new mascaras I want one that is going to separate all the way down to the root, give me long stretched out lashes that make people second guess if I'm wearing falsies, and that are patent leather black. mascaras like benefit they're real and maybelline colossal cat eyes are some of my favorites and give me that perfect flirty lash look- long throughout, with just the right amount of something special in the outer corner. usually mascaras with rubber wands and short spikey bristles (like any of the covergirl lash blasts which I've forever sworn off, but to each their own) leave me with short stubby lashes and mascara streaked across my eyelid (not a good look), so when I first opened this tube of maybelline the rocket volum' express mascara I was immediately disappointed. the wand looked almost identical to the covergirl versions, and after one horribly awful failed attempt, I cursed it and put it away. fast forward to a few weeks later when I was testing out some Halloween makeup looks and decided to layer it with my other current mascara, and I realized that the formula had changed (going from super wet and messy to drier and stiffer). I was left with thick roots that could be combed through (thanks to the short spiked plastic wand) to create separated, super long lashes. normally when a formula changes it isn't for good (nail polish separating, top coats thickening, foundation oxidizing, or perfume changing scents), but with mascara it seems to usually be the opposite. take a wet and impossible formula and give it a couple weeks to dry out with the help of a little air to the tube, and you have yourself a whole different product. what started as a hate it, turned into a love it- a makeup miracle.

what mascara works best for your lashes- a wet formula that you can rake through, or a drier formula you can really build up?

xx, marissa 

makeup madness- sephora VIB sale

as an official card carrying member of sephora's VIB program I finally get to take part in the fun that is their annual shopping event (i.e. 20% off of items that are never on sale!) I've been poking around the interweb, and the super snazzy holiday catalogue that arrived in my mailbox, for the past few days and have narrowed my must haves down from just about everything to a select few. now for those of us that are more forward thinking/less selfish, this would be a great time to start your holiday shopping (starting early and getting things on sale = win, win) and pick up some pretty things for your makeup obsessed bestie, you newbie little sister, or your 'never indulges herself' mom.

the holiday sets are always my go-tos this time of the year. they offer you opportunities to try a bunch of different products a single line (like this option) or a variety of products from a mix of different brands (like this one). last year I opted to try the Tarte holiday gift set and was turned on to an amazing eyeshadow formulation (with an entire pallet of everyday to smoky colors to choose from), and test out a few of their other best selling products that had been on my list. this year the Too Faced Le Grand Palais definitely caught my attention (with its mix of products for eyes/cheek/face and minis of its most popular mascara, primer, and lipgloss) and the Le Grand Chateu would make a great gift for a few girlfriends since the mini pallets can be split up and shared! the packaging is seriously the cutest- tie on a pretty bow and you're good to go (I'm picking this up for my younger cousins and splitting the three pallets out amongst them!) if you're more in the market for a set that will let you sample a little bit of this and a little bit of that from a bunch of sephora heavy hitters, the Sephora Favorites Superstars is the MVP. every year they compile the best selling products throughout the store to offer a mix of full size and deluxe sample sizes to try out. it hits every note- from mascara to primer, and contour to highlight, from many of your favorite brands (like nars, tarte, smashbox, benefit, and laura mercier), in shades that you actually want to try. we see you monthly subscription companies and "gift sets" that are dumping grounds for all the colors that were flops- no one wants a bunch of those, kthanks. sephora offers a gift set for every type of beauty junkie; slave to skincare, eyeliner officianado, mascara fiend, lip product lover, or hair goddess. do you self a favor and take a peek at the sets from sephora- check, check, check on that shopping list.

there are also those products that you find yourself always repurchasing- the perfect liquid eyeliner (I'll be picking up a backup of my holy grail since I know I'll be needing a new one eventually), your go-to foundation (either in the color you're currently wearing or shade/two down to prepare for the coming months and impending paleness), a rollerball of your signature scent (I try and keep this one from Elizabeth and James always in my purse), or the first step for any look (primers for face, lips or eyes- I'll be picking up this one from Too Faced to try). these are the products that you know you'll be buying in the new future, pick them up now for 20% off and it will be like shopping your stash when you finally need them.

the VIB sale is also a great time to invest in the more expensive beauty products you use/have been meaning to try- quality skin care (I'll be picking up the moisturizer from my like it, love it, gotta have it post about sensitive skin moisturizers), fragrance (you know you'll be going through a perfume within the year. use this as the time to stock up on your signature scent, or explore and try something new. layering scents is always fun, or picking a special occasion/nighttime scent), or beauty tools (beauty blenders, clarisonic/brush heads, or new brushes) and save some pretty pennies.

have you ever shopped the VIB sale? what's on your list for beauty goodies this year?

xx, marissa

shopping 101: missing wardrobe pieces

for most people, shopping usually ends up being the hunt for a certain something, retail therapy, or "just looking" that ultimately turns into buying. impulse shopping or picking up random pieces is a great way to find fun gems for your wardrobe, but I like to think of mine as a collection of things that I love. and while that collection is constantly evolving, a trendy piece from forever21 or h&m here and a random find at a vintage store there, there are key basics and solid foundation pieces that make getting dressed every morning super easy and and create an unlimited combination of looks to choose from. as super type-a as this sounds, I love to keep a running list of the pieces I've found are missing from my wardrobe. it makes me treat shopping as a sport, always on the hunt for that elusive something that's missing, and I get such a sick satisfaction out of checking something off the list when I take it home. there are some things that seem like they should be easy finds (a soft, semi-slouchy v-neck t in white & black), but being the perfectionist that I am, if something isn't perfect, I won't even bother. my list is full of investment pieces (a black leather moto jacket, taupe suede desert booties, and a structured leather handbag), but also pieces that could go high end or budget friendly (DVF wrap dress or one that just fits amazing). and with the holidays coming up, I always find myself stumped when people ask something that I would love. clothes shopping for another person can be super tricky, but it provides a great jumping point for someone, and for specific items (like white low-top chuck Taylor's or matte black folding wayfarers) that's pretty impossible for someone to screw up.

do you keep a list of pieces you're on the hunt for, or am I alone in my type a-ness on this one?

xx, marissa

currently craving: fall

usually this is right around the time the air is at its perfect crispness, the leaves are looking pretty spectacular (but also equal parts crunchy beneath your feet), and one of the best holidays is so close you can taste it. I say usually because what I'm describing it pretty particular to a place that isn't Los Angeles, and not that it's the end of the world, but this girl misses fall. I'm sure it sounds crazy to someone who hasn't grown up their entire life with it as your favorite season and what you straight up wait for all year (and put up with the bs that is snow in the winter and the humidity in the summer/all year long), but it really is the best. not to mention the fashion (hello layering and knits and boots and sweaters!), the activities (apple picking and corn mazes and pumpkin patches and haunted hayrides), and the tastes (apple cider and cider donuts and caramel apples and sugar rim on my pumpkin beer). did I say I was missing fall?! the year I was in madrid was the first and only time that I missed it, and it's just as horrible now as it was then. and thanks to the creation of instagram (that was back in the day when all the cool young people were using facebook), I have the daily reminder of just how much beauty and fun I'm missing out on. I know when it's January and New England is dealing with the raw, grey horribleness that is winger, I'll be counting my blessings that I jumped ship and headed west- but right now, autumn on the east coast is looking mighty good.

love it/hate it: bioderma

there are few products that I will give "holy grail" status to, and bioderma is definitely at the top of that list. back when I was studying abroad in Spain, I loved poking around the department stores and pharmacies to see what products these beautiful women used and loved. I picked up a small bottle of bioderma and was immediately obsessed with its ability to cut through my waterproof makeup (specifically my holy grail eyeliner) and was instantly a convert. it wasn't until I was back in the states, and realized just how difficult it would be to get my hands on this amazing product, that I cursed falling in love in the first place. there was always amazon, which charged ridiculous prices/shipping fees, but I just couldn't bite the bullet. fast forward to two years ago when one of my bosses took a trip to Slavonia and popped over to Italy to snag me a bottle of this miracle worker. I was instantly hooked again and savored every last drop of that bottle (which side note lasted quite a bit since I only use it to take off my eyemakeup and a little goes a long way). thankfully, the makeup gods have spoken and bioderma is easily available from the website beautylish (#hallelujah). as soon as I heard that they were the first US distributor, I hoped on the website and ordered a bottle (with a cute travel size too) and it is still just as amazing as before (sometimes when European products jump the pond the formula is different and it's not the same product that you know and love- this was not the case). there are plenty of micellar water products out on the market now (I'm looking at you simple), but none compare to the original. the best, and only product, that cuts through my waterproof eyeliner like it's nothing, doesn't leave my skin tight after using, and unless I get it directly in my eyes- doesn't sting them. the only thing that would make bioderma better, is if it were a bit more easily accessible (I love being able to pop into sephora, target or cvs to pick up my favorite beauty products), but online vs. over seas? I'll take it.

have you ever tried bioderma? are you a fan of micellar waters?

xx, marissa

neighborhood faves: Beverly Hills

spending the last eleven months in beverly hills (with a stellar resident tour guide bee tee dubs), I definitely have my fair share of favorite places. whether it's the perfect chicken sandwich, or the best rooftop for drinks, I've got you covered. I've founded up a list of my favorite places & spaces that are must sees the next time you're in the neighborhood.

food:

honor bar was the first restaurant we hit when I visited LA last summer, and home of the best chicken sandwich (currently tied with another neighborhood favorite, but that's for a different day). love the ambiance, the great location, and of course the food. their french fries are amazing, and there's even a liquor store attached where you can buy a bottle of bubbly and share it at your table. I've heard great things about their sushi, but you'll have to take other people's word on that (my relationship with the whole raw fish thing is touch and go.)

urth caffé can be a total zoo (equal parts tourist trap & hip spot) but totally worth it for brunch and great people watching. inside is cutesy, but try and snag a table outside in the sun. 

il tramezzino is a tiny little panini restaurant not too far from work that makes a nutella and banana croissant that will make you weep (pressed in a waffle maker to melt the nutella and bananas, crisp up the outside, and then topped with powdered sugar- holy yum.) I'm pretty partial to the chicken dijon (avocado & dijon/honey mustard is always a winning combo in my book), but the chicken special is also great (hint hint it's the basil garlic sauce that seals the deal).

sirtaj was the go to spot after a grueling day of soccer practice all season. amazing indian food, great servers (the bartender on Monday nights was the best), and mellow vibe. order the chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, and the potato croquette (but make sure it's a Monday & ask for it to be extra spicy). and if you have room (ie make sure you have room) order the chocolate samosa- so good.

mulberry street is the LA equivalent to Boston's Ernesto's (check out my north end neighborhood faves here) and THE place to go to for a slice. chicken parm is my favorite, but be sure to try the garlic knots with a side of sauce to dip.

shop:

planet beauty is california based beauty boutique that is like a baby sister to sephora. less total brands, but amazing quality. shop big names like stila (my favorite eyeliner of all time here), OPI, Essie (check out my favorite picks from either brand here), Sarah Happ (amazing lip scrub and treatment), sigma brushes (rival MAC quality brushes), or smaller like ahava (great line from Israel made from Dead Sea minerals) and nuxe paris (their dry oil is my go-to for taming my curly hair post brushing, and the shimmer version is amazing for summer goddess skin). plus they have amazing buy two get one free deals (jump on that bandwagon sephora!) that are perfect for stocking up on your favorite products or trying something new.

kyle by alene too is the boutique owned by real housewives Kyle, which would usually make me run in the other direction, but their window displays always draw me in. they carry typical LA girl wardrobe staples, but also manage to incorporate amazing pieces from Elizabeth and James, Mara Hoffman, Tolani, and Rebecca Taylor to keep it interesting. the boutique space is the former home of a bank, so the back room features a vault loaded with past season goodies that they open up for sales at different points of the year. 

planet blue is great for fun bathing suits, cheeky wild fox pieces, and dainty accessories. while I'm not the biggest fan of the shopping experience there (think sales associates who are more interested in appearing cool vs. helping customers), their buyer does a great job having a good mix of trendy pieces and lust investments.

go:

SIXTY Beverly Hills (formerly known as the Thompson hotel) has my favorite rooftop for cocktails and enjoying a beautiful day. it's the go-to spot for showing out of town visitors (amazing views of the hills and all of LA), bungalows and a great pool for lounging, and mellow music & people. my go-to is the Beverly Hills lemonade, but swap out the vodka for tequila- amazing.

the Beverly Hills farmer's market is every sunday morning/early afternoon and is such a fun way to start a sunday funday. great people watching (may or may not have seen a celeb or two before), picking up fresh and organic fruits & veggies for the upcoming week, tasting some amazing food (the chilaquiles are RIDICULOUS but literally the hottest thing I've ever eaten. get their early, before the guacamole is gone, or else you'll be crying like a little baby), and jamming out to the live music on a beautiful morning.

xx,
marissa 

like it, love it, gotta have it: moisturizer for sensitive skin

being surrounded by so much plastic surgery for that last 10 months has made me really want to up my skin care game- so many people who haven't taken care of their skin, get work done and end up looking like creepy plastic versions of everyone else. with my super sensitive skin, I always need to try new products before making an investment (and quality skin care is always $$$). sephora and their sample policy make it super easy. when I popped in a few weeks ago I grabbed a few cult favorites to see what worked best.

like hate it: first aid beauty ultra repair lotion. I wanted to like this product, I really did. I had heard so many great things about the first aid beauty brand, but this product is the worst. right off the bat I was super unimpressed with the liquidy consistency, it spilled out of the sample container and made a big ol' mess. usually products that are that thin and runny don't stick around on the skin too long, and you end up feeling like you haven't even moisturized. but, I was willing to put my consistency issues aside if it proved to be a good product. spoiler alert- it did not. after using this for two days, I was left with tons of tiny little pumps and breakouts all over my forehead and along my hairline. not cute. it's been almost three weeks and I'm still combating those breakouts (more on the product that's been clearing up my skin later). this product may be a cult favorite, but for those of us #blessed with sensitive skin- beware.

love it: fresh lotus youth preserve face cream with super 7 complex. this moisturizer is an all around good product. good for you ingredients, leaves the skin feeling moisturized but not weighed dow, and from a quality company that I love supporting. it has a fresh (har har!) scent, very cucumber/spa like, that didn't irritate my skin. it claims to have seven super charged ingredients that leave the skin radiant and plump- which I think definitely added some luminosity to my skin. if I hadn't tried the next product, this would have been the moisturizer that I added to my skin care routine. but this is a battle of the best, and another product was just better.

gotta have it: evercalm global protection day cream. this was the first I tried of the bunch, and I wish that I had ended with it. it left my skin moisturized, without being overly greasy, but also didn't break me out or leave dry patches in any areas. the consistency was perfect for making sure that moisture stuck around for a little while and didn't just soak up into the skin from being too thin and liquidy. it worked great under my makeup (but note- I don't wear any foundation or liquid skin products so this may not be true if you do) and didn't make my bronzer or blush look patchy. it's been unbecomingly  muggy & super hot in LA lately, and it didn't make my skin goopy (which as a sometimes sweaty girl happens with a lot of moisturizers). it was scented with a citrus fragrance, that initially made me nervous (fragrance is usually a big no-no with sensitive skin), but didn't end up being a bad thing. the scent was actually refreshing first thing in the morning. a huge bonus for this moisturizer over any other that I tried (or have tried in the past) is the global protection aspect. living in LA (with its amazing air quality) has made me realize just how important protecting your skin from air pollution is, and this product is specifically formulated to do just that. this is the moisturizer being added to my beauty arsenal (and thanks to hitting the next level of Beauty Insider at sephora), I'll be taking it home soon & for 10% off. win, win.

are you lucky enough to have super sensitive skin too? what's your all time favorite moisturizer for keeping your skin soft & glowing without adding breakouts? 

xx, marissa

currently craving: bangs

my only personal experience with bangs (that should be classified as a personal nightmare) came right around the 11/almost 12 year mark (ie. perfect pre-teen awkwardness when everyone is their most attractive). I had begged and pleaded with my mother to cut bangs into my thick and naturally wavy hair that frizzes even at the slightest hint of humidity, and eventually won the mother daughter battle. I should have listened when she told me that they would require upkeep, daily blow drying, and about their affinity to get frizzy and look awful in the 90% humidity that New England has more than half of the year, but what did I know. I resented those bangs for exactly as long as it took to grow them out, and developed an aversion to anything bang related.

flash forward to now, and living in a place with hardly any humidity (besides this past two week long heat wave- that's enough Mother Nature! I'd like the real LA weather back please), and I've been itching for a change. now my hair is in serious need of a haircut, but any movie/show/random person the street has me craving thick, long bangs like none other.

what to do, what to do?

xx, marissa

love it/hate it: simple cleansing facial wipes

as a gal with sensitive skin, I love when companies put out products specially formulated to be super gentle (let alone a whole line!). I was so pumped when simple skin care first came over from the UK. I dove right in, experimenting with their cleansers and moisturizers- but it was the facial wipes that had me the most excited. every other brand that I tried (even the versions supposedly made for sensitive skin) would either sting my eyes, make my skin burn and itch, or leave a sticky feeling behind. now- having to rinse off after using a wipe isn't a total black mark against a product, but it definitely makes those late nights that much easier when I don't have to schlep all the way to the bathroom after using one (you know that struggle). so I gave these wipes the old college try and not only did they give me all of those problems, but they also caused me to break out along my forehead after just a couple uses. they work fine at taking of my non-waterproof mascara and eyeshadow, but on my waterproof eyeliner they were hopeless. and while that may make sense, since they are a line created to be sensitive to the skin, they werent even gentle on my skin. the wipes are scented, which I have no issues with scented products (as long as the fragrance doesn't break me out), but usually with sensitive skin products scent is one of the first ingredients left out.

do these wipes work for some people? absolutely. they are a beauty product that has quite the following of loyal fans, and if you're somebody who has tough skin that doesn't easily breakout or flare up, you may be one of them. I love the ease of a makeup wipe, super convenient to keep in your bedside drawer or makeup bag for easy touch ups and the laziest nighttime routine ever (hey, we all have those nights. no judgment.), but I've found a product that's just as easily + better for you ingredients + better formula + without all the issues (expect that blog post soon!).

what's your take on the simple cleansing facial wipes? have you tried any other products from the simple skincare line? 

xoxo, marissa

manicure monday: god's gift to nail art

slight overexaggeration? possibly, but it's pretty great. now I was perfectly content with my makeshift nail art tools (bobby pins, eyeliner brushes, and brushes from old polish), until I noticed that sephora had quite the little nail art kit on sale (thanks sephora app!) and decided that I deserved an upgrade. the sephora "art at your fingertips" nail kit has everything that you need to create so many of my favorite (and easiest!) looks. everything from brushes (for painting small designs using your favorite polishes and cleaning up any stray marks on your cuticles) and dotting tools (for making the perfect polka dots or scalloped edges) to black and white stripers (for making straight lines and zebra print or adding details to any design). it even comes with an info card with different uses for each of the items if you're new to nail aren't and just aren't sure where to start. use this with my other mani must haves (check out that blog post here) and be prepared for everyone to ask where you got your nails done.

how are your nail art skills? are you a diy type gal, or do you prefer to leave it to the professional?

xx, marissa

currently craving: clogs

a few years back the idea of owning a pair of clogs would have sounded insane to me. who do I think I am, Heidi? but after seeing an oh-so-stylish friend of mine rock them basically on the daily (with socks during the winter even- gasp!), I was sold. I picked up a pair last winter on serious sale at DSW, but they've seen better days. I've been online window shopping for the perfect pair of classic swedish style clogs for a hot minute, but haven't been able to pull the trigger on the perfect pair. in case you're in the market, I've rounded up a couple of my favorites and hopefully one of these pretty (and practical) babies will be making their way into my wardrobe soon.

what's your take on clog sandals? too fugly for your taste? maybe you're a reformed hater like me, or are you one of those über cool girls that liked them before they were trendy? 

xx, marissa 

drugstore faves

now I love a splurge worthy beauty item as much as the next gal, but there are some products that take the cake and have a budget friendly price tag. and while I'm never one to say no to a trip to sephora or a beauty counter, the convenience of popping into a CVS can't be beat. I've rounded up a few of my favorite beauty products (hair & skin care, makeup, brushes, and nail products) that stand up to, and in some cases, blow their high priced counter parts out of the water.

cetaphil daily facial cleanser: this gentle cleanser has been my go-to for years. as someone with super sensitive skin, I seem to have the best luck when I use basic products and don't fuss with it too much. this cleanser is perfect at cleaning my skin, without removing too much oil and leaving it tight and dry. it works great with my clarisonic, getting nice and foamy for a deep clean. good enough for pharrell and naomi campbell, good enough for me.

wet n wild color icon eyedshadow: regardless of if they're in the 99 cent singles, the trios, six pan shadows, or limited edition pallets, these shadows are amazing. the colors are gorgeous, the formula is super pigmented and creamy, and the shades blend like a dream. in their line you can basically fine a dupe for any and every expensive eyeshadow on the market, and not only in tone, but in quality as well. while I tend to steer clear of the super sparkly versions, it's hard to find a color that isn't amazing. a few of my personal favorites would be brûlée (the perfect blending and transition color), nutty (the best color for an easy one shadow look), and the comfort zone pallet.

elf eyebrow kit: I've blogged about my love of this product before (check it out here), but it is definitely worth mentioning again. spot on dupe for the benefit brow zings (besides the mini tweezers) and for a fraction of the cost. helps keep my brows looking more audrey and less frida.

l'oréal oleo therapy perfecting oil: ridiculous name, amazing product. this hair oil is perfect for keeping my thick and curly/wavy hair from looking like a frizzy mess. while it didn't totally beat out the high end version (check out that post here), it was pretty close. and if we're being honest, this is the product that I continue to repurchase, not the expensive paul mitchell version.

maybelline dream bouncy blush: I love a cream product for the summer, blends more naturally into the skin, and this line of blushes is great. I remember when the dream bouncy formula was first introduced it was super blogged about in the beauty community. for a product where you're looking for full coverage (like foundation) I don't think it's the best, but for blushes it's perfect. my favorite is coffee cake, I love the brown with a touch of coral against sunkissed skin, but the bright pinks and hot corals are also great. applied to the apples of the cheeks and blended up towards the temple with a dual fibered stipple brush (I love this one) gives a perfectly natural look. for a bit more pigmented look, and to up the staying power, top with a powder blush in a similar tone and you're good to go.

out the door super fast dry top coat: when you paint your nails as much as I do, you come up with a system of what works best for you (products, technique, tools, etc). I've blogged about my love for this product before (check it out here), and it still is a necessity when it comes to doing my nails. not only does it not have as many scary chemicals as other fast dry top coats out there (I'm looking at you seché vite), it doesn't give you shrinkage around the edges, doesn't leave pillow lines in your nails if you just so happen to paint them right before bed, and doesn't get gooey halfway through the bottle causing you to throw it away and waste what should be perfectly good product. for nails that are super shiny & look like a gel manicure, try this top coat. even over cheapie drugstore polishes, the results are amazing.

wet n wild megalast lipsticks: hands down, the best drugstore lipsticks; and the greatest part? you could try the entire line for less than the cost of one YSL lipstick. super opaque, amazing staying power, and you can find dupes for just about any lip color you're searching for. whether you're looking for a perfect nude (bare it all), a bright coral red (purty persimmon), a deep wine (sugar plum fairy), or a bright peach (just peachy), they are all amazing.

e.l.f. studio makeup brushes: while there are absolutely pros to investing some serious money in expensive makeup brushes, I have no problem achieving great results with these inexpensive alternative mixed in with my expensive brushes. they've gone through countless washes and still manage to look great. with any line there are of course the duds (steer clear of the foundation,  concealer, and angeled eyeliner brushes), there are MVP brushes that I use on the daily (countouring, eyebrow duo, flat topped powder, stipple, and crease brushes). don't be fooled by the cheaper grey/silver essential line of brushes, the matte black studio line is where it's at.

it's easy to walk into sephora and spend a small fortune outfitting yourself with an amazing makeup collection, but these products work great, have a budget friendly price tag, and are available at just about any drugstores- win, win! what are some of your favorite drugstore beauty products? any cult favorites that you can't bear to live without?

xx, marissa

love it/hate it: benefit they're real! push-up liner

now I've blogged about my past hatred for the original black version of this product before (check it out here), but when I heard that benefit was releasing a new collection of colored liner and mascara I was still excited (#beautyjunkie). I figured that benefit would take into account the issues that basically everyone and their mother had with the product; maybe the formula would be different in the colored version, maybe the packaging would be better designed, maybe it wouldn't require a special remover to take that shizz off, WHO knows. and when I saw that the sephora app had a promo code for a deluxe sample size, I jumped at the chance to try it out. (side note- if you're not doing your online shopping at sephora using the app, you're crazy. best promo codes, super easy to navigate, and you can track your order right through the app. download it now and thank me later.) I was pleasantly surprised to see that the sample was for the brown version; dark brown is my go-to eyeliner color, so much more natural and flattering for day to day. when I opened the liner I noticed that the new packaging had step-by-step instructions on how to use the product (clicking the product up into the tip, and wiping off the start of the product on to napkin before applying to the eye), and while that's super helpful since most people would assume you could just dive right in and start winging, it still doesn't solve the problem that you're wasting half of the product by the time you use it up. I love the creamy gel formula for gliding easily onto you lid, but forget about building up your wing with more than one swipe. if you do, the product balls up on itself and starts to peel off your eyelid (not cute). for someone who can get a perfect wing in one swipe, that isn't an issue. but most people require at least two swipes to get a perfect line. the lock in place formula is supposedly so strong that benefit had to release a special eye makeup remover specifically for this liner (which I'm sorry- but that seems ridiculous to me), but I found that the thinnest part of my liner (near my inner corner to the beginning of my lash line) completely disappeared mid-day. I want my makeup to be locked into place when I apply it in the morning, and be there until I take it off at night.

so final thoughts- I think it's safe to say I truly hate this product, which honestly really bums me out. I want to love this product because I love the idea of it. the design of the applicator tip is genius, it really does give you the perfect wing without even trying, but I can't get over buying a product to literally waste half of it every single use. the new colors are gorgeous (dying over the bright emerald green), but the staying power just isn't there, and the formula isn't anything special. there are so many amazing eyeliners available that unless you can't do a wing to save your life, don't care about throwing away product, and are fine with a crazy formula- don't even bother. watch some YouTube videos, practice practice practice, and save your pennies; two thumbs down.

what are your thoughts on the they're real! push-up liner from benefit? are you part of the 1% that loves it, or do you think it belongs in the garbage?

xx, marissa 

baubles and jewels

in the cross country trek, certain important items just didn't make the cut (my amazing DVD collection, favorite handbags, and my gorgeous headboard to name a few). editing down and cramming my entire life into two suitcases and a carry-on was not easy, and there was one collection that I was not (under any circumstances) willing to part with. 

I was lucky enough to amass quite the collection of incredible jewelry pieces during my time at a M. Flynn thanks to my incredibly generous (and all around fabulous) bosses, all of which came right along with me to california. while I love the look of a fun statement necklace (bauble bar makes some of my favorites- check out my picks from a past sale here), I also gravitate towards daintier necklaces and rings for day to day and bold earrings.

on top of my burea I keep a few trays to collect my most worn pieces- this one from Hudson is one of my favorites and says "as far as I'm concerned leopard is a neutral" (one of my favorite fashion sayings and a sweet gift from a friend). I tend to have a pretty basic colored wardrobe and love to wear a bold earring to jazz up an outfit or add a pop of color (especially peeking out from my long hair)- emerald green from Les Neréides Paris, bronze and clear crystal from Camilla James, pink and multi colored crystals from Erickson Beamon, and gold and champagne crystal from M. Flynn. when it comes to bracelets I love mixing metals and a touch of sparkle- crystal pavé link bracelet from J.Crew, and rose gold and enamel bangle from Henri Bendel. the three dainty rings are each sentimental and are perfect when I want to switch out from my everyday ring- gold bow ring from Kate Spade, pearl ring from Kauai, and gold palm tree from a friend. my standard necklace switches between this rose gold and diamond bar, a sweet parting and birthday gift from my wonderful bosses, or this "charm" necklace with my baby claddagh ring, a blessed Italian horn from Florence, and a vintage chain from my mom.

and on the other end of the spectrum, are my favorite statement necklaces that make the outfit and are a great way to look effortlessly pulled together (with almost zero time and effort)- gold multi strand necklace from M. Flynn, brass triangular necklace from Camilla James, pink and crystal multi strand necklace from Nordstrom, gold triangle necklace from Karen London, and gold and enamel necklace from House of Harlow.

are you someone that likes to jazz up an outfit with fun accessories, or do you tend to let your clothes speak for themselves?

xx, marissa

love it/hate it: sephora collection cream lip stain

I had been on a mission to find a classic red lip product that would give me the perfect pinup pout, without turning my lips into a dried out mess and without smearing all over my face (tough order to fill). most products that weren't super drying had no staying power and I ended up looking like I had been smooching the Kool Aid man. and if they were a true stain, my lips looked like the sahara desert after a few hours (and don't even think about reapplying).

I had heard great things about the sephora cream lip stains (side note- does anyone else completely forget about sephora collection cosmetics? I'm always so jazzed about other brands that I usually don't even look) and whenever I would go to check them out, so many colors would be sold out. you know a product is good (or at least being buzzed about) when it's sold out at sephora. one color in particular (always red) was never available, so when I saw it a couple week ago I had to snatch it up.

for starters the product is super opaque- no need to apply multiple coats to build to the perfect color. one swipe and you are good to go. I liked that the product had a few seconds where it's wet before it truly sets, giving you a bit to quickly wipe any stray lines before it stains. I did notice though, that even though the product dries, there's still a bit of transfer when you touch your lips or take a sip. forget about applying this once in the morning and forgetting about it all day- it definitely isn't a true stain. but, because of that bit of give, it wasn't super dry and uncomfortable on the lips. the color is great, that perfect true red that can be classic, preppy, rocker, boho, or full glamazon. 

would I say I love the product? no, not love. do I hate the product? definitely not. I like it, really like it. but I haven't given up my quest for the perfect red stain. this one from sephora certainly isn't it, but it'll do for now.

have you ever tried the sephora cream lip stains? what's your favorite product from the store's line?

xx, marissa

no-heat banana curls

while I am most certainly a self professed beauty junky, hair has never been my forte. I've been lucky enough to be born with naturally nice hair (thanks mom&dad), have never dyed it, and keep the heat styling to a minimum- so I never really have to do much to it. with the help of my favorite products (I ranked my favorites here), and this simple trick, I manage to create the look of curls using a curling wand/iron, as it air dries. and the best part? the curls last for days.

normally this is my go to on mornings that I have to wash my hair (I'm totally a shower at night kind of gal, but sometimes...) and have to find a way to look presentable without blow drying. I start by towel drying my hair and twisting it into a towel on top of my head (this is the time when I'll do my makeup, moisturize, or anything to help the towel absorb as much moisture as possible). then I'll apply one and a half pumps of the serum to each side of my hair, parted in a deep side part (of course use more or less serum depending on length/thickness & part your hair to whatever side you prefer). after I'll brush my hair into a low ponytail, secure at the base of my neck (avoid securing it too tightly to stop dents- these are great), and twist the ponytail tightly from the elastic to the ends. once your hair is dry, just break up the twist into banana curls (side note- is banana curl a New England term? I've had people look at me like I have 10 heads out here) and it looks like you've spent serious time with a curling iron. and since this is the way the hair is drying, you don't have to worry about your curls falling out as the day goes on. translation? curls that look great all day, last for days, and can even be brushed out to create glamorous Hollywood curls. win, win, win.

ever heard of this easy peasy way to curl your hair? try it & tell me if it worked for your hair type!

xx, marissa

like it, love it, gotta have it: hair oils

during my teenage years, my thick curly/wavy hair was one of the biggest banes of my existence (#teenagegirlproblems). it seemed that everyone I knew had long, sleek straight hair- and I was willing to do whatever it took to have that same look. my friends and I went to extremes, lining up on our knees to have our hair literally ironed with our mother's clothing irons and our necks pressed against the ironing board, to achieve our dream hair. now that I'm a bit older, and a heck of a lot wiser, I've learned the importance of working with your natural texture- and not against it. for me, the best way to achieve smooth and frizz free hair without heat is to use an oil product on damp hair and let it air dry. I've tried quite a few products, both high end and drugstore, and have rounded up three of my favorites.

Like It: Organix Ever Straight Brazilian Keratin Therapy Anti Breakage Serum. I picked up this product after I tried, and loved, the shampoo and condition from the same line. The oil worked fine at keeping the frizz at bay, but I found that the oil was way too heavy for my hair, and weighed it down. as someone who doesn't wash their hair everyday, I tend to steer clear of products that require frequent washings, and this was definitely one of them. while the price point is great, and the availability at the drug store is even better, it's just an alright product for me.

Love It: L'Oréal Oleo Therapy Perfecting Oil-Essence.  It was quite a difficult decision choosing between Love It and Like It for this product. If we're being fair, both are tied for times repurchased , which to me is the true test of loving a product. But the other just manages to squeak past and take the title. But this oil, was a gift to me from my former boss when it didn't quite work for her. She found it wasn't quite heavy enough to tame her very curly hair (if you're blessed with truly kinky, curly hair this may not be the best for you), but it provided the perfect weight without totally weighing down mine. Unlike the Organix version, which was way too much to use on dry hair for a slight touch up/to smooth flyaways, this product can be used on both damp and dry hair, without feeling heavy or leaving you looking like you haven't washed your hair in days (ie grease ball status). While I love the luxurious feeling of a glass bottle, it made traveling with the product a bit more difficult (but two thumbs up on the pump design). And being able to pop into a drug store and repurchase is always better than having to schlep all the way to a salon when you realize you've run out.

Gotta Have It: Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Styling Treatment Oil. This oil takes the cake- I love the packing (plastic for the win), the pump top, (which makes knowing the exact amount you need/not wasting product possible) and the amazing smell, but besides that the results are holy grail status. It leaves my hair smooth and silky, and my curls frizz free even in the hot, summer weather (including the annoying kinky curls around my temples). I've always had a soft spot for Paul Mitchell products (The Conditioner was the only thing I used on my hair as a little girl), so when my hair dresser used this product on me during a cut years ago, I knew it would be good stuff. His products can be a bit pricey, and not always easily available (even in the "Salon Section" of drugstores), but if you can find it/swing the price point, try it- you will love the results.

what are some of your favorite hair products to create your flawless looks? I always love experimenting with new products, and discovering new holy grails.

xx, marissa